1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 375 kg more than 2011 BMW 325.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Explorer | 325 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
