2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra 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 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 42 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 167 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. 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 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Optra | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
