1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 4 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 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 667 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1986 Ford Escort, 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 (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Escort |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
