1999 Audi S8 vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 is newer by 23 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, 1999 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 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, 1999 Audi S8 (330 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S8 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 317 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
