2009 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 425 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
