1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Saturn SC
To start off, 1998 Saturn SC 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 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 391 kg more than 1998 Saturn SC.
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 Saturn SC, 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SC 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 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Thunderbird | SC |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2610 mm |
