2009 Ford Focus vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus 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 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 16 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 Ford Focus, 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (155 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 80 L |
