2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 322 kg more than 1978 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (369 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Ford | Buick |
| Model | Thunderbird | Century |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 3788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
