1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC 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 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
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 Scion tC, 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 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion tC. (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Ford | Scion |
| Model | Thunderbird | tC |
| 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 | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
