1972 BMW Turbo vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1972 BMW Turbo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,784 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1972 BMW Turbo. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW Turbo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 486 kg more than 1972 BMW Turbo. 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:
| 1972 BMW Turbo | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Turbo | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4784 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
