2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1972 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 7,445 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1972 GMC Suburban. (238 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1972 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 GMC Suburban weights approximately 585 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1972 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 GMC Suburban 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, 1972 GMC Suburban (481 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1972 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 7445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 481 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 2330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3300 mm |
