2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 364 kg more than 2008 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Explorer | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 63 L |
