1998 Ford Contour vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 12 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 136 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Contour | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |