1999 BMW X5 vs. 1978 Ford LTD
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford LTD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford LTD would be higher. At 5,763 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford LTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford LTD (296 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1999 BMW X5. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford LTD should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW X5 weights approximately 394 kg more than 1978 Ford LTD.
Because 1999 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford LTD. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 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, 1978 Ford LTD (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW X5. (439 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Ford LTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW X5 | 1978 Ford LTD | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X5 | LTD |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 5763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 525 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2184 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3080 mm |
