2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (239 HP @ 6150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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, 2004 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) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
