1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2005 Kia Sportage is newer by 23 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, 2005 Kia Sportage (126 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Kia Sportage.
Because 2005 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Sportage. (175 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Sportage. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Kia Sportage has manual transmission. 2005 Kia Sportage 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 | 2005 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Thunderbird | Sportage |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1542 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
