1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Ford Focus
To start off, 2011 Ford Focus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2011 Ford Focus. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Focus weights approximately 254 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1987 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 1987 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Focus, 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, 2011 Ford Focus (184 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2011 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Focus |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4445 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1722 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1488 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2614 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 51 L |
