1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 19 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, 2005 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 112 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, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 2005 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
