1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 25 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, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder (241 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 139 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 2004 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder 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) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Pathfinder. (359 Nm). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Pathfinder.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1952 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
