1990 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 536 kg more than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
