1996 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2001 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 132 L |
