1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra 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 121 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 520 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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 Opel Astra, 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 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
