How much horsepower does a 1979 Ford Thunderbird have?
The base 1979 Ford Thunderbird was equipped with a 302 cubic inch V8 delivering about 140 horsepower (SAE net). With optional engines, horsepower could range higher, roughly from the mid-160s up to about 210 horsepower depending on the configuration and emission controls in place at the time.
In 1979, Ford offered multiple V8 options for the Thunderbird, reflecting the era’s emphasis on comfort and cruising capability alongside performance. Emissions regulations of the period suppressed peak output compared with earlier decades, which affected published horsepower figures. This article outlines the main engine choices and their approximate horsepower ratings.
Engine options and horsepower
Below are the primary engine choices that were available for the 1979 Thunderbird, along with their published horsepower ranges.
- 5.0 L (302 cu in) V8 — about 140 horsepower (SAE net)
- 5.8 L (351 cu in) V8 — roughly 165–180 horsepower (SAE net)
- 6.6 L (400 cu in) V8 — roughly 180–210 horsepower (SAE net)
In short, the Thunderbird’s horsepower varied significantly by engine option, with the base model at about 140 hp and larger V8s offering a noticeable boost into the upper range for the era.
Performance context
The horsepower figures mattered for acceleration and highway performance, but the Thunderbird remained a relatively heavy cruiser designed more for comfort and style than for outright speed. The combination of a sizable body, automatic transmissions, and the late-1970s emission controls shaped the car’s overall performance profile.
Notes on model variations
Trim levels and options (such as Landau or other luxury configurations) could also influence overall performance due to weight and drivetrain choices. For precise figures on a specific car, checking the original window sticker or an official Ford sales document from 1979 is recommended.
Summary
For the 1979 Ford Thunderbird, horsepower depended on the engine. The standard 302 V8 produced around 140 hp, while optional larger V8s pushed output into the mid-160s to about 210 hp range. The car balanced comfort and cruising capability with modest acceleration for its class, reflecting the automotive climate of the late 1970s.
How much is a 1979 Thunderbird worth today?
The lowest selling price of a 1979 Ford Thunderbird at auction over the last three years was $4,400. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
How much horsepower does a 1979 Ford 351 have?
5.8L V8 (351 CID) Windsor: The 351 Windsor was another popular V8 option, known for its robustness and torque. It delivered approximately 150 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
What engine is in a 1979 Thunderbird?
The car was powered by a choice of V8 engines, including the 302, 351, and 400 cubic-inch options, paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. The Thunderbird Heritage Edition also featured advanced options for the time, such as power windows, cruise control, and air conditioning.
How much horsepower does a 1979 Ford Thunderbird 302 have?
130 hp
The base engine was the 302 cu in (4.9 L) Windsor V8 (130 hp), while the larger 351 cu in (5.8 L) 351M (149 hp) and 400 cu in (6.6 L) 335 (173 hp) along with T-tops were available as options along with the 351W.
