1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 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 10 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 268 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. 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, 1980 Saab 900, 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Thunderbird | 900 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
