1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 25 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
