2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1983 Ford Meteor
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1983 Ford Meteor. (72 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Meteor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 860 kg more than 1983 Ford Meteor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Meteor, 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 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Meteor. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Meteor. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Meteor has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Meteor will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1983 Ford Meteor | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Meteor |
Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |