1996 BMW 540 vs. 1954 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,114 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. (225 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 237 kg more than 1954 Ford Thunderbird. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1954 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 540 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 5114 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2600 mm |
