2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1983 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Talbot Horizon would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 411 more horse power than 1983 Talbot Horizon. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1983 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Talbot Horizon weights approximately 18 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Talbot Horizon, 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 518 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Talbot Horizon. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Talbot Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1983 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Talbot |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
