1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 99 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | V50 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
