1959 Berkeley QB vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley QB. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley QB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 997 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Berkeley QB, 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Berkeley QB. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Berkeley QB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Berkeley QB | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Berkeley | Ford |
| Model | QB | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 692 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 162 HP |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 381 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 54 L |
