2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1989 Subaru XT
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Subaru XT 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 115 more horse power than 1989 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1989 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 581 kg more than 1989 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1989 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Thunderbird | XT |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
