2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP) has 105 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 432 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
