1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 14 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 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 372 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. 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, 1996 Mazda 121, 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 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 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 121 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2460 mm |
