1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 380 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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 (390 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 4947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
