1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 BMW 325
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 BMW 325.
Because 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 325 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2770 mm |
