1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (124 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 137 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Thunderbird | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2740 mm |
