2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 291 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will offer significantly more control. 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 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Traverse | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
