1997 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 680 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 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) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 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:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
