1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 15 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 42 more horse power than 2001 Opel Meriva. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 2 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2001 Opel Meriva, 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Meriva. (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
