1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 1989 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 799 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph TR8. (224 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph TR8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Thunderbird | TR8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
