1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Renault Laguna

To start off, 2008 Renault Laguna is newer by 26 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, 2008 Renault Laguna (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Laguna should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 6 kg more than 2008 Renault Laguna.

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, 2008 Renault Laguna, 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, 2008 Renault Laguna (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Laguna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Renault Laguna has manual transmission. 2008 Renault Laguna 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 2008 Renault Laguna
Make Ford Renault
Model Thunderbird Laguna
Year Released 1982 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3275 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 87 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 209 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 140 km/hour 215 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1436 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 5100 mm 4700 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 70 L