2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 362 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
Make | Ford | Holden |
Model | Thunderbird | Commodore |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3933 cc | 4142 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 280 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 270 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2670 mm |