1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Lada Niva
To start off, 2003 Lada Niva is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Lada Niva. (79 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 410 kg more than 2003 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lada Niva 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lada Niva. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lada Niva. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 2003 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Ford | Lada |
| Model | Thunderbird | Niva |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2210 mm |
