2001 Ford Ranger vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2001 Ford Ranger is newer by 19 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 Ford Ranger. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Ranger weights approximately 312 kg more than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2001 Ford Ranger 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, 2001 Ford Ranger 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, 2001 Ford Ranger (266 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Ranger 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:
| 2001 Ford Ranger | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 80 L |
