1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1962 Jeep CJ5
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1962 Jeep CJ5. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1962 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 576 kg more than 1962 Jeep CJ5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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, 1962 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 (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Jeep CJ5. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Jeep CJ5. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1962 Jeep CJ5 has manual transmission. 1962 Jeep CJ5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1962 Jeep CJ5 | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Thunderbird | CJ5 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1030 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 |
