1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 23 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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, 2011 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 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 2011 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 325 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
