1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 494 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
