2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 21 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 133 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.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
