1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Xterra. (261 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Xterra.
Because 1969 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Ford Thunderbird. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7029 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 14.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 29.4 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 80 L |
