1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra 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 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 8 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (103 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 162 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. 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, 2004 Opel Astra, 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (231 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
