2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 BMW 316

To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 635 kg more than 2004 BMW 316. 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 2004 BMW 316. 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 (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316. 2004 BMW 316 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. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Ford Explorer 2004 BMW 316
Make Ford BMW
Model Explorer 316
Year Released 2002 2004
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4947 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 212 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 390 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 3750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2010 kg 1375 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2730 mm