2009 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 209 kg more than 2009 BMW X3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
