1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Simca 1100
To start off, 1979 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Simca 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Simca 1100 would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1974 Simca 1100. (59 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1974 Simca 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 903 kg more than 1974 Simca 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Simca 1100, 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Simca 1100. (87 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Simca 1100. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1974 Simca 1100 has manual transmission. 1974 Simca 1100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 1974 Simca 1100 | |
| Make | Ford | Simca |
| Model | Thunderbird | 1100 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 65 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 47 L |
