1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1983 Nissan Micra
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Micra 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 113 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 713 kg more than 1983 Nissan Micra. 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, 1983 Nissan Micra, 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 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 1983 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Micra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
