2008 BMW 320 vs. 2013 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (360 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 719 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (475 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2013 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 2013 Ford Explorer
Make BMW Ford
Model 320 Explorer
Year Released 2008 2013
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 161 HP 360 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 475 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 10.8: 1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 2209 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 5006 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1803 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 70 L