2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 23 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 257 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, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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 Cadillac DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac DTS | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Cadillac | Ford |
Model | DTS | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 292 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 391 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 54 L |