1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (158 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 175 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix.
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 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
