1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 115 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
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:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2600 mm |
