1955 BMW 501 vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 407 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. 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:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
