2006 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 2 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 38 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 627 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
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, 2006 BMW X3 (410 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
