1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 35 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 213 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Thunderbird | Cruze |
Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 317 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1850 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1407 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2685 mm |