1951 BMW 340 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1979 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 BMW 340 would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1951 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1951 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 563 kg more than 1951 BMW 340. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 BMW 340 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 340 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
