1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 535 weights approximately 521 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 535 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 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, 2011 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 535 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3071 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
