2006 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 24 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 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (304 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (438 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Impala | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5326 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 304 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
