2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 498 kg more than 2008 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Citroen Xsara, 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 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
