1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 BMW X5
To start off, 2002 BMW X5 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW X5 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW X5 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 BMW X5 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | X5 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |
