1985 Ford Taurus vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Taurus (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 165 kg more than 1985 Ford Taurus.
Because 1988 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 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus, 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Taurus. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Ford Taurus | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Taurus | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 96.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |