1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Isuzu Ascender
To start off, 2003 Isuzu Ascender 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 Isuzu Ascender (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Isuzu Ascender should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Isuzu Ascender weights approximately 357 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 Isuzu Ascender 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 Isuzu Ascender 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Isuzu Ascender. (374 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Isuzu Ascender.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Isuzu Ascender | |
| Make | Ford | Isuzu |
| Model | Thunderbird | Ascender |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 102 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1920 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3280 mm |
