2012 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 517 kg more than 2008 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Ford Explorer | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Explorer | 525 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2067 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5006 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2004 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1788 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
