1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Jeep Wrangler

To start off, 2006 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 24 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, 2006 Jeep Wrangler (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 58 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 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Jeep Wrangler. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Jeep Wrangler. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2006 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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 2006 Jeep Wrangler
Make Ford Jeep
Model Thunderbird Wrangler
Year Released 1982 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 2425 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 118 HP 147 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 252 Nm 224 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.6 mm 87.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 101.1 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.7:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1448 kg 1506 kg
Vehicle Length 5100 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1800 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2380 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 72 L