1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 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 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 43 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 110 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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 6 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
