1978 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (249 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 905 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
