2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1987 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (193 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 681 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 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 1987 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne (321 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Buick Lucerne 1987 Ford Thunderbird
Make Buick Ford
Model Lucerne Thunderbird
Year Released 2009 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3880 cc 2301 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 227 HP 193 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 321 Nm 91 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1617 kg 936 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 116 L