1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1959 Jeep CJ5
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1959 Jeep CJ5. (62 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1959 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 430 kg more than 1959 Jeep CJ5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Jeep CJ5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Jeep CJ5 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Jeep CJ5. (180 Nm @ 1350 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Jeep CJ5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1959 Jeep CJ5 | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Thunderbird | CJ5 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3153 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2060 mm |
