1997 Ford F-150 vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Ford F-150 is newer by 15 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford F-150 (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford F-150 weights approximately 687 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 1997 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Ford F-150 (467 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 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:
| 1997 Ford F-150 | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | F-150 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 467 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2760 mm |
