1978 BMW M1 vs. 1954 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1978 BMW M1 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,114 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. (225 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 278 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
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:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1954 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M1 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 5114 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
