1975 BMW 520 vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1975 BMW 520 is newer by 19 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 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 215 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. 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:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2600 mm |
