2003 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 2 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (167 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
