2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z4 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
