2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 243 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 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram (552 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Dodge Ram 1982 Ford Thunderbird
Make Dodge Ford
Model Ram Thunderbird
Year Released 2009 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5654 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 390 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 552 Nm 252 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 8.7:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 6 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1691 kg 1448 kg
Vehicle Length 5790 mm 5100 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1910 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 3560 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 98 L 80 L