1998 Ford Explorer vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1998 Ford Explorer 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Explorer (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 452 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
