2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 8 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, 2011 BMW 325 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 325. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Explorer | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 57 L |
