1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 10 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 18 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 399 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
