1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 438 kg more than 2008 Subaru Forester.
Because 2008 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester 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 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Subaru Forester. (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Subaru Forester. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Subaru Forester has manual transmission. 2008 Subaru Forester 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 | 2008 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Thunderbird | Forester |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
