1983 Austin Maestro vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 692 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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 Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (178 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Maestro | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1712 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2490 mm |
