1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2011 Ford Taurus is newer by 32 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, 2011 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Taurus weights approximately 8 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, 2011 Ford Taurus, 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Taurus. (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Taurus |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5731 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 386 Nm | 337 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1821 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 5154 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1935 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1542 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2868 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |