1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 29 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, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 258 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Thunderbird | A3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
