1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1995 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 1995 Nissan Maxima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Thunderbird 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 24 more horse power than 1995 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1995 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 33 kg more than 1995 Nissan Maxima. 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, 1995 Nissan Maxima, 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Nissan Maxima.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Thunderbird 1995 Nissan Maxima
Make Ford Nissan
Model Thunderbird Maxima
Year Released 1986 1995
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2299 cc 1993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 162 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 241 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1378 kg 1345 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2710 mm