2008 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 19 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 6,199 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 21 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 2008 Cadillac Escalade 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, 2008 Cadillac Escalade 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, 2008 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac Escalade | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | Escalade | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6199 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 565 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5670 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1920 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 45 L |
