1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 39 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 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara (251 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara has manual transmission. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 66 L |
