2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 345 kg more than 2006 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fiesta. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fiesta | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 317 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2760 mm |
