1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Ford Escape
To start off, 2006 Ford Escape is newer by 27 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, 2006 Ford Escape (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 98 kg more than 2006 Ford Escape.
Because 2006 Ford Escape 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, 2006 Ford Escape 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Escape. (206 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Escape |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2261 cc |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 104 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
