2004 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 302 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
