2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 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 Chrysler 300 (242 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 2 kg more than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2009 Chrysler 300, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler 300. (340 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
