1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 13 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 1 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 419 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, 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) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
