1998 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 624 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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 1998 BMW 318. 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 (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
