2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 640 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Tempo |
Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2540 mm |