2005 Chevrolet Uplander vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Uplander is newer by 26 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, 2005 Chevrolet Uplander (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Uplander should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Uplander weights approximately 215 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 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, 2005 Chevrolet Uplander, 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) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Uplander. (298 Nm). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Uplander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Uplander | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Uplander | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2028 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
