2009 Acura TL vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Acura TL is newer by 27 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TL weights approximately 404 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, 2009 Acura TL, 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, 2009 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura TL | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | TL | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
