1991 Dodge Monaco vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1991 Dodge Monaco is newer by 12 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, 1991 Dodge Monaco (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Dodge Monaco should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 458 kg more than 1991 Dodge Monaco.
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, 1991 Dodge Monaco, 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Dodge Monaco. (232 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Dodge Monaco.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Dodge Monaco | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Monaco | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
