2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda 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 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 612 kg more than 2009 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Fiat Panda 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 Fiat Panda 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2009 Fiat Panda 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:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Panda | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1577 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 80 L |
