1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1984 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Phoenix 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 48 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 510 kg more than 1984 Pontiac Phoenix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 Pontiac Phoenix, 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Pontiac Phoenix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1984 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2670 mm |
