1996 Audi S6 vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Audi S6 is newer by 10 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 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 382 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 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Audi S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S6 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4171 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 54 L |
