2002 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Chrysler Sebring 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 Chrysler Sebring (149 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 361 kg more than 2002 Chrysler Sebring.
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, 2002 Chrysler Sebring, 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 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler Sebring | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Sebring | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
