1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Mercury MC4
To start off, 1997 Mercury MC4 is newer by 15 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury MC4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury MC4 (202 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury MC4 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercury MC4 (387 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury MC4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Mercury MC4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | MC4 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
