1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Elantra (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 618 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, 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) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Elantra 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 | 2002 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
