1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1982 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 1982 Nissan Patrol is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 455 kg more than 1976 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1982 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Nissan Patrol 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Nissan Patrol. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1982 Nissan Patrol has manual transmission. 1982 Nissan Patrol will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 1982 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2980 mm |
