2008 BMW X3 vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 726 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |
