1963 BMW 502 vs. 1962 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1963 BMW 502 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 6,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1962 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Ford Thunderbird (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1963 BMW 502. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 385 kg more than 1963 BMW 502. 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:
| 1963 BMW 502 | 1962 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 502 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 6964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
