1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 31 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander (184 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 297 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander, 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, both vehicles can yield 252 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Thunderbird | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 105 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |
