2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1987 Honda Prelude

To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1987 Honda Prelude. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 617 kg more than 1987 Honda Prelude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Honda Prelude, 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Honda Prelude. (157 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Honda Prelude.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Ford Thunderbird 1987 Honda Prelude
Make Ford Honda
Model Thunderbird Prelude
Year Released 2004 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3933 cc 1958 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 280 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 388 Nm 157 Nm
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 95 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1712 kg 1095 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2490 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 38 L