2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 29 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 738 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Impala.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala, 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 @ 1400 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
