1988 BMW 535 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 420 kg more than 1988 BMW 535.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
