1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Ford Expedition
To start off, 2006 Ford Expedition is newer by 20 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford Expedition is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Expedition (300 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Expedition weights approximately 1478 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 2006 Ford Expedition is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Expedition will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Ford Expedition (496 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Ford Expedition | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Expedition |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 5408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 496 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 106 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 9 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 2856 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 106 L |
