1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 BMW 730
To start off, 1997 BMW 730 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,785 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 269 kg more than 1955 Ford Thunderbird.
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. 1997 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1955 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 730 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4785 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2940 mm |
