1985 BMW M5 vs. 1997 Ford Explorer
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW M5 (256 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 BMW M5.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW M5. (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW M5 | 1997 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M5 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
