1988 BMW 524 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 625 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 524. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 524 2002 Ford Explorer
Make BMW Ford
Model 524 Explorer
Year Released 1988 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2493 cc 4015 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 22.0:1 9.7:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1355 kg 1980 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2870 mm