1992 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 1992 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 750 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 323, 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, 1992 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Thunderbird | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 323 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1071 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
