1980 Cadillac Eldorado vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 6,030 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1980 Cadillac Eldorado. (143 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Cadillac Eldorado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 25 kg more than 1980 Cadillac Eldorado. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Cadillac Eldorado. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Cadillac Eldorado.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Cadillac Eldorado | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | Eldorado | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6030 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2730 mm |
