2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 725 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8, 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, 2009 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
