1996 BMW 535 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 405 kg more than 1996 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 535 | Explorer |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2004 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |