2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer 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 64 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 267 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 523. 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 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Explorer | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
