1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Altima is newer by 14 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, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 324 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
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, 2003 Nissan Altima, 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Altima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 73 L |
