1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1973 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline 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 (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 730 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1973 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
