1974 Chrysler Charger vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 290 kg more than 1974 Chrysler Charger.
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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chrysler Charger. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chrysler Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler Charger | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Charger | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2880 mm |
