1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1145 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 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Thunderbird | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |
