1990 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 780 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW M3. 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW M3 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:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 59 L |
