1972 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 31 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 475 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 3 | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3934 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 249 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 388 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |