1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 05-Sep 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 207 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Thunderbird | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 75 L |
