1986 Ford Escort 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 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 842 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 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 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (369 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 3932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 369 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
