1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 28 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
