1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (129 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 12 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Caprice | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1712 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2490 mm |
