1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2008 Ford Mondeo is newer by 19 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, 2008 Ford Mondeo (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Ford Mondeo.
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, 2008 Ford Mondeo, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Mondeo. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
