1986 Fiat Croma vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Croma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Croma would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Croma. (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 592 kg more than 1986 Fiat Croma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Croma. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Croma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Croma | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1712 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2490 mm |
