2001 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. (280 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 157 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2005 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
