1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Renault Fuego
To start off, 1989 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault Fuego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault Fuego would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Renault Fuego. (96 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault Fuego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 579 kg more than 1980 Renault Fuego. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault Fuego, 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault Fuego. (134 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault Fuego.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Renault Fuego | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Fuego |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 56 L |
