1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 137 kg more than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer 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 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Explorer |
Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5731 cc | 3994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 386 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2840 mm |