1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Dodge Challenger (241 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 31 kg more than 1972 Dodge Challenger.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Dodge Challenger (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2760 mm |
