1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 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 Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 120 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
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, 2011 BMW Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Thunderbird | Z4 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 244 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2497 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |