2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 125 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (281 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Taurus | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 241 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 54 L |