1972 BMW 3 vs. 1991 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1991 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 197 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. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 482 kg more than 1972 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, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (373 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1991 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
