2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 20 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 539 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Tahoe | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 45 L |
