1971 BMW 3 vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1989 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 234 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 3 | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1614 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 45 L |