1988 BMW M5 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 240 kg more than 1988 BMW M5.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 M5 (360 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (325 Nm). This means 1988 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M5 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
