How much horsepower does a 1990 Ford Thunderbird supercharged have?
Approximately 230 horsepower.
In the 1990 Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe (SC), Ford’s performance-focused version of the Thunderbirds produced around 230 horsepower from its 3.8-liter V6 with an Eaton-rooted supercharger, delivering roughly 315 pound-feet of torque. The SC era (1989–1991) paired this engine with front-wheel drive and a 4-speed automatic transmission, aiming to blend personal-luxury styling with noticeably stronger acceleration than the standard Thunderbird models of the period.
Model overview
The Thunderbird SC was Ford’s answer to a rising demand for performance-oriented personal coupes in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Distinctive styling cues, a lithe chassis, and a boosted powertrain set it apart from the mainstream Thunderbird lines, making it a recognizable bridge between luxury and sport for Ford enthusiasts.
Engine and performance
Below is a snapshot of the core specifications that defined the Thunderbird SC’s output and drive characteristics for the 1990 model year.
- Engine: 3.8-liter V6 with Roots-type supercharger (Eaton M90)
- Horsepower: 230 hp (SAE net)
- Torque: 315 lb-ft
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic overdrive
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
In practice, this setup provided strong mid-range torque and a noticeable jump in acceleration relative to non-supercharged Ford V6 variants of the era, while maintaining the Thunderbird’s ride-and-styling ethos.
Horsepower ratings and measurement context
Horsepower figures from late-1980s and early-1990s American cars can vary depending on the testing standard used. Ford’s own documentation for the 1990 Thunderbird SC aligns with SAE net horsepower, listed as 230 hp, with torque around 315 lb-ft. Some older brochures or advertisements may reference different numbers due to the transition from gross to net testing in the industry, or regional variances in rating practices.
- SAE net horsepower: 230 hp
- Torque: ~315 lb-ft
- Engine: 3.8 L V6 with supercharger
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic
These details help explain why aftermarket discussions or vintage brochures sometimes show a range of numbers. The official figure for the 1990 model year remains 230 hp (SAE net).
Summary
The 1990 Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe delivered about 230 horsepower from its 3.8-liter supercharged V6, paired with a front-wheel-drive layout and a 4-speed automatic transmission. This combination gave the SC its characteristic blend of comfortable cruising power and spirited performance for its class, cementing its place in Ford’s late-1980s to early-1990s performance lineup.
