1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Montana 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Montana (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Montana should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 352 kg more than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 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 Pontiac Montana, 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 Pontiac Montana (298 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Montana |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3050 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 95 L |
