1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2005 Suzuki Samurai 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 363 kg more than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Suzuki Samurai 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 Samurai 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 (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 2005 Suzuki Samurai 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 Samurai | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2490 mm |
