2009 Audi A4 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 30 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, 2009 Audi A4 (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 203 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A4 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:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A4 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
