2008 Ford Expedition vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Ford Expedition 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 Ford Expedition (301 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 703 kg more than 2008 Ford Expedition.
Because 2008 Ford Expedition is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Expedition 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, 2008 Ford Expedition (495 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Expedition | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Expedition | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 495 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5250 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1970 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 106 L | 80 L |
