2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1979 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 480 kg more than 2005 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1979 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 2232 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 |
