1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. Both 1989 Ford Thunderbird and 1996 Oldsmobile SS are equipped with a 3,791 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (380 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Thunderbird | SS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
