1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 26 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 258 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 257 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 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Thunderbird | R8 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
