1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 22 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 3 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Thunderbird | Maxima |
Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1617 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4841 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2776 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |