1996 Audi A4 vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 14 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, 1996 Audi A4 (101 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 251 kg more than 1996 Audi A4.
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, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 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:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A4 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
