2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1986 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1986 Mazda RX-7. (185 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda RX-7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda RX-7. (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda RX-7. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1986 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1986 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1986 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Thunderbird | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2354 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 246 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |