2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Ford Fiesta 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 457 kg more than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2002 Ford Fiesta, 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Fiesta 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 Ford Fiesta | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1577 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
