2006 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 3 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 525.
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 (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 525 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
