2003 BMW X3 vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW X3 | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | X3 | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 317 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |