1988 BMW 530 vs. 1980 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1988 BMW 530 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 113 kg more than 1980 Ford Thunderbird.
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. 1980 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 1980 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 530 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 0 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
