1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 412 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
