1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 49 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra.
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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
