2005 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,327 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Suburban (283 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 776 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Suburban 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, 2005 Chevrolet Suburban (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Suburban | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Suburban | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5327 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2390 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5580 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3180 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 45 L |
