How are Ford Thunderbirds?

I'm getting a new car next month since my 94 escort decided to die on me. I was looking at thunderbirds (1989-1997 models) and was wondering how they are. How much difference in gas would it be compared to my escort (1.9L) <-- and when people in cars talk about for example (4.5 L or 1.9L or 2.0L) what exactly does that mean??? But will a thunderbird be cheaper in gas then what I've been driving for the past month (2001 Durango)? Please help.