2006 Ford Mondeo vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Ford Mondeo 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 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Mondeo (154 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 42 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, 2006 Ford Mondeo, 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 Ford Mondeo (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Mondeo has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Mondeo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Mondeo | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mondeo | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1478 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
