2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 799 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4007 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
