1978 Audi 100 vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 238 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 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 1982 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Audi 100, 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1978 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1978 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Audi 100 1982 Ford Thunderbird
Make Audi Ford
Model 100 Thunderbird
Year Released 1978 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1986 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 70 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 125 Nm 252 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.5 mm 96.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 23.0:1 8.7:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1210 kg 1448 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 5100 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 80 L