1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Acura TL
To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 30 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, 2012 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 242 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, 2012 Acura TL, 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, 2012 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Acura TL | |
Make | Ford | Acura |
Model | Thunderbird | TL |
Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 344 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4928 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2776 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |