1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 7 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 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 28 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 428 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. 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, 1989 Holden Nova, 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Nova 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:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Thunderbird | Nova |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2440 mm |
