1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra 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. 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 38 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 391 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. 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, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
