1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 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, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 239 kg more than 2009 Toyota RAV4.
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 RAV4, 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, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Thunderbird | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
