1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1998 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 16 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, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 237 kg more than 1998 Saab 03-Sep.
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, 1998 Saab 03-Sep, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (219 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1998 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 1998 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 1998 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Thunderbird | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
