1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1981 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 1996 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (130 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 325 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1981 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 GMC Jimmy (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Thunderbird | 1981 GMC Jimmy | |
Make | Ford | GMC |
Model | Thunderbird | Jimmy |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 6210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1840 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |