1998 BMW M vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 489 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 85 L |
