1971 Audi 100 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1979 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Audi 100 would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1971 Audi 100. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1971 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 763 kg more than 1971 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Audi 100, 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Audi 100. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Audi 100 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | 100 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1871 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2900 mm |
