2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1976 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1976 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1976 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 GMC Suburban weights approximately 455 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1976 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, 1976 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1976 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 2200 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 |
