2002 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 23 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, 2002 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 267 kg more than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Astro. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Astro | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Astro | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2080 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 80 L |
