1958 BMW 502 vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 502 (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 26 kg more than 1958 BMW 502.
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. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1958 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1958 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 502 | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 502 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
