1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Lexus ES
To start off, 1997 Lexus ES is newer by 9 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, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Lexus ES.
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, 1997 Lexus ES, 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, 1997 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Thunderbird | ES |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| 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 | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2680 mm |
