2002 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 305 more horse power than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 510 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1990 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1610 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2880 mm |
