2008 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 130 kg more than 2008 BMW 323.
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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3791 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
