1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 10 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 519 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Thunderbird | Cavalier |
Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2190 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 89.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |