1990 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 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 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 397 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. 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 1990 BMW 520. 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 (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3070 mm |
