2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus is newer by 17 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 99 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Taurus | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Taurus | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 79.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 54 L |