2007 Ford Ka vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2007 Ford Ka is newer by 18 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 @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2007 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2007 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 727 kg more than 2007 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2007 Ford Ka, 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 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Ford Ka.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Ford Ka 1989 Ford Thunderbird
Make Ford Ford
Model Ka Thunderbird
Year Released 2007 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1297 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 68 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 106 Nm 291 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74.1 mm 96.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.5 mm 86 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 887 kg 1614 kg
Vehicle Length 3630 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2880 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 45 L