1987 Dodge Daytona vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 1987 Dodge Daytona is newer by 5 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, 1987 Dodge Daytona (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 216 kg more than 1987 Dodge Daytona.

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, 1987 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1987 Dodge Daytona (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1987 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1987 Dodge Daytona has manual transmission. 1987 Dodge Daytona 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:

1987 Dodge Daytona 1982 Ford Thunderbird
Make Dodge Ford
Model Daytona Thunderbird
Year Released 1987 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2213 cc 3275 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 174 HP 87 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 209 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 1400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.1:1 8.6:1
Top Speed 217 km/hour 140 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1220 kg 1436 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 5100 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 80 L