1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 588 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe 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 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2004 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
