2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Saab 99 would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1974 Saab 99. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1974 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 607 kg more than 1974 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Saab 99, 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Saab 99. (162 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Thunderbird | 99 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
