1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1986 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1987 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1986 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Mustang weights approximately 249 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mustang (161 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 1986 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 1986 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
