1954 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 BMW 535
To start off, 2012 BMW 535 is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,114 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 535 (311 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. (225 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 535 weights approximately 212 kg more than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. 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:
| 1954 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 535 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5114 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2968 mm |
