1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 8 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (239 HP @ 6150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
