1987 Ford Tempo vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 1987 Ford Tempo is newer by 8 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 708 kg more than 1987 Ford Tempo. 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, 1987 Ford Tempo, 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 1987 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Tempo. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Tempo 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.

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