1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Renault Espace
To start off, 2007 Renault Espace 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 Renault Espace (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Espace weights approximately 37 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 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 Renault Espace, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Renault Espace. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Renault Espace. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2007 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 2007 Renault Espace 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 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Espace |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
