1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 428 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. 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, 1995 Opel Astra, 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 (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1995 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1995 Opel Astra 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 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1008 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
