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What engine is in a 1979 Thunderbird?

The 1979 Ford Thunderbird was powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine. This engine, known as the 302 cubic inch Windsor V8, was a staple of Ford's lineup in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It provided ample power and performance for the Thunderbird, which was a popular personal luxury car at the time.


Engine Specifications


The 302 cubic inch (4.2-liter) Windsor V8 engine in the 1979 Thunderbird had the following key specifications:



  • Displacement: 4.2 liters (302 cubic inches)

  • Cylinder configuration: V8

  • Horsepower: 140 hp @ 3,800 rpm

  • Torque: 240 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm

  • Fuel system: Carburetor

  • Transmission: 3-speed automatic


This engine provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for the Thunderbird, which was a relatively large and heavy car for the time. The 302 V8 was a well-proven design that had been in use by Ford since the 1960s.


Thunderbird Model Year Changes


The 1979 Thunderbird was part of the fifth generation of the model, which was produced from 1977 to 1982. Over this time period, the engine options evolved slightly, with the 302 V8 being the standard engine for most of the run. In 1980, a 3.8-liter V6 engine was also offered as a more fuel-efficient option.


Overall, the 302 cubic inch V8 was a reliable and capable engine that provided good performance for the 1979 Ford Thunderbird, a classic personal luxury car from the late 1970s.

What year Thunderbird had 429?


The 1968 Thunderbird saw the introduction of the new 385 series big-block "Thunder Jet" 4V (4 barrel carburetor) 429 cu in (7.0 L) V8 engines.



What is the rarest Thunderbird?


The rarest of all 1957 Ford Thunderbirds is the 1957 Phase One D/F Factory Supercharged. One of 15 hand-built for Ford Competition at Ford Headquarters, and one of eight known to survive today.



What year is the most valuable Thunderbird?


For 1957, a rare supercharged edition V-8 soars to nearly a quarter million dollars, with base #3-condition (Good) cars checking in at just under $40,000 (similar in pricing to 1956 models).



What engine was in a 1979 Ford Thunderbird?


FORD Thunderbird 5.7L V8 3AT (153 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 5.7L V8 3AT (153 HP)
Displacement:5732 cm3
Power:113 KW @ 3600 RPM 154 HP @ 3600 RPM 152 BHP @ 3600 RPM
Torque:269 lb-ft @ 2200 RPM 365 Nm @ 2200 RPM
Fuel System:Carburetor



How much is a 1979 Ford Thunderbird worth today?


The value of a 1979 Ford Thunderbird can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $7,200 for a 1979 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec.



What year did Thunderbird have a 428?


1966
For 1966, the 390-cubic-inch V8's power was increased to 315 hp (235 kW). The larger 428-cubic-inch (7.0 L) V-8 became optional, rated at 345 hp (257 kW) and providing a notable improvement in 0-60 mph acceleration to about 9 seconds.



What motor did the Thunderbird have?


3.9 L Jaguar AJ35 V8
Ford Thunderbird (eleventh generation)

Ford Thunderbird
Powertrain
Engine3.9 L Jaguar AJ35 V8
Transmission5-speed Ford Bordeaux 5R44E automatic
Dimensions



What is the rarest Ford Thunderbird?


1957 Phase One D/F Factory Supercharged
The rarest of all 1957 Ford Thunderbirds is the 1957 Phase One D/F Factory Supercharged. One of 15 hand-built for Ford Competition at Ford Headquarters, and one of eight known to survive today.



What year is the most desirable Thunderbird?


The 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster M-Code is a rare classic car and one of the most sought-after Thunderbird versions.



Why did Ford stop the Thunderbird?


With sales dropping significantly after its first model year, Ford discontinued the eleventh-generation Thunderbird after the 2005 model year; the final vehicle was manufactured on July 1, 2005.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.