2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 176 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 692 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
