2002 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 386 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier 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:
| 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1577 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
