1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona 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 57 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 596 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
