2003 BMW X3 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1979 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 1979 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
