1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 433 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2190 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 317 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |