1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 287 kg more than 2006 Nissan Xterra.
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, 2006 Nissan Xterra, 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
