1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mitsubishi Raider
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Raider 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 Mitsubishi Raider (230 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mitsubishi Raider should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 638 kg more than 2006 Mitsubishi Raider.
Because 2006 Mitsubishi Raider 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 Mitsubishi Raider 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Raider (393 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2006 Mitsubishi Raider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mitsubishi Raider | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Raider |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 4703 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 5590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
