1981 Audi 80 vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 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 @ 4600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 188 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | 80 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
