2003 BMW 520 vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 47 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 4,784 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
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:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 4784 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2600 mm |
