1990 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Explorer (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 244 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Because 1990 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2001 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
