2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1990 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 14 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 133 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Because 1990 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 1990 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 1990 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1990 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |
