1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 30 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Saturn Astra.
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, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Saturn Astra 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 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
Make | Ford | Saturn |
Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5731 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 386 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |