1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 557 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun Laurel | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Datsun | Ford |
Model | Laurel | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3934 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 249 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 388 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |