1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 430 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 386 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |