1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2001 Renault Megane is newer by 19 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 437 kg more than 2001 Renault Megane. 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, 2001 Renault Megane, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Megane. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Megane. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2001 Renault Megane 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 | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Megane |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2590 mm |
