1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Saturn Vue
To start off, 2009 Saturn Vue 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 Saturn Vue (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2009 Saturn Vue, 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 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Vue. (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Vue.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vue |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
