1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Suzuki Forenza
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Forenza 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Forenza (128 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Forenza should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki Forenza weights approximately 32 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 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 Suzuki Forenza, 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Forenza. (178 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Forenza. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Suzuki Forenza has manual transmission. 2008 Suzuki Forenza 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 Suzuki Forenza | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | Forenza |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
