1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Jeep Compass

To start off, 2009 Jeep Compass 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 Jeep Compass (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Compass should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Compass weights approximately 423 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 Jeep Compass 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 Jeep Compass 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 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Jeep Compass. (224 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Jeep Compass. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Jeep Compass has manual transmission. 2009 Jeep Compass 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 Jeep Compass
Make Ford Jeep
Model Thunderbird Compass
Year Released 1976 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 2360 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 135 HP 172 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 317 Nm 224 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.4:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 2043 kg
Vehicle Length 5100 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1660 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2640 mm