2008 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 29 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, 2008 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 263 kg more than 2008 BMW X5.
Because 2008 BMW X5 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, 2008 BMW X5 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X5 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
