1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Buick Enclave
To start off, 2011 Buick Enclave is newer by 25 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Buick Enclave is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Buick Enclave (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick Enclave weights approximately 790 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, 2011 Buick Enclave, 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, 2011 Buick Enclave (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Buick Enclave | |
| Make | Ford | Buick |
| Model | Thunderbird | Enclave |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 2168 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5126 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2007 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 83 L |
