2004 Audi A6 vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 is newer by 18 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 14 more horse power than 2004 Audi A6. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 112 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, 2004 Audi A6, 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, 2004 Audi A6 (339 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A6 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
