2006 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 14 kg more than 2006 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 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 X3 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
