1996 BMW 540 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
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 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 540 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 0 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
