1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 22 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (245 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Outback 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 2008 Subaru Outback 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, 2008 Subaru Outback 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Thunderbird | Outback |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
