1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair (153 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 160 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. (234 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 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 | 1620 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
