1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima is newer by 28 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 138 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, 2010 Nissan Altima, 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (219 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Altima |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
