1958 BMW 501 vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 215 kg more than 1958 BMW 501.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 501 | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1958 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |