2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1989 Ford Meteor
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1989 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Meteor.
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, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Meteor. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Meteor has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Meteor will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1989 Ford Meteor | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Meteor |
Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |