1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 BMW 535
To start off, 2006 BMW 535 is newer by 51 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 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 535 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1955 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. 2006 BMW 535 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. 2006 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 535 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
