1990 Ford Tempo vs. 2001 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2001 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1990 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 595 kg more than 1990 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Ford Tempo, 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, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Tempo | 2001 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Tempo | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2730 mm |
