1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 30 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, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
