2002 Ford Ka vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 13 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 3 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ka. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 478 kg more than 2002 Ford Ka. 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, 2002 Ford Ka, 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 45 L |
