1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu 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 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 171 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1577 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |
