1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 74 kg more than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
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 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (335 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
