1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 GMC Canyon
To start off, 2009 GMC Canyon is newer by 33 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, 2009 GMC Canyon (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Canyon should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Canyon weights approximately 858 kg more than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 GMC Canyon 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, 2009 GMC Canyon 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 GMC Canyon. (259 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 GMC Canyon. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 GMC Canyon has manual transmission. 2009 GMC Canyon 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 | 2009 GMC Canyon | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Canyon |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
