1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 908 kg more 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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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 Volkswagen Transporter (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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 Volkswagen Transporter has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Transporter |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| 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 | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
