1989 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort, 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Escort | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Escort | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1700 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 317 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |