2006 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 17 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP) has 30 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 136 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1989 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 1989 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Optra | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Optra | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
