1988 BMW 535 vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 222 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (369 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 369 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 68 L |
