1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 28 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, 2004 Renault Megane (163 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 205 kg more than 2004 Renault Megane.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane, 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2004 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2004 Renault Megane 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 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Megane |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2480 mm |
