1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 239 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, 2012 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2012 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Thunderbird | Maxima |
Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2299 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 162 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1617 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4841 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2776 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |