1997 BMW S3 vs. 2006 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2006 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1494 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2006 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2862 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
