1987 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 320 (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 732 kg more than 1987 BMW 320.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
