1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Toyota Prius

To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 28 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 284 kg more than 2009 Toyota Prius. 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 Toyota Prius, 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford Thunderbird 2009 Toyota Prius
Make Ford Toyota
Model Thunderbird Prius
Year Released 1989 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1495 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 291 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1614 kg 1330 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 45 L


 

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