1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (118 HP) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 428 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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 (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara 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:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 96.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
