1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 60 kg more than 2012 BMW 120.
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, 2012 BMW 120 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 BMW 120 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Thunderbird | 120 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1411 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |