2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 BMW Z4. (261 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 317 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4. 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (315 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Thunderbird | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
