1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 22 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, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima.
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, 2004 Nissan Altima, 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, 2004 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Altima |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 2505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
