2008 Ford Ka vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 26 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 470 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka. 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, 2008 Ford Ka, 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 (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Ka 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:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
