1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird 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 61 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (132 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 354 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1987 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 1987 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (191 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Megane |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 60 L |
