1988 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Ford Explorer
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 330 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1997 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
