2004 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 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 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 390 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW M3. 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, 2004 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
