1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Ford Freestar
To start off, 2005 Ford Freestar is newer by 16 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Freestar (190 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Freestar weights approximately 326 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2005 Ford Freestar, 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, 2005 Ford Freestar (336 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Ford Freestar | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Freestar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
