1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 17 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 65 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 166 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. 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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Megane |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
