1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1987 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Escort 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 64 more horse power than 1987 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Escort.
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, 1987 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1987 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Escort |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 74 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
