1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1989 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1989 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 1989 Hyundai Sonata, 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1989 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Ford | Hyundai |
Model | Thunderbird | Sonata |
Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2972 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 91.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |