2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 22 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 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 303 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2286 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1577 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 80 L |
