1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1999 Ford Telstar
To start off, 1999 Ford Telstar is newer by 11 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, 1999 Ford Telstar (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Telstar should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 331 kg more than 1999 Ford Telstar.
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, 1999 Ford Telstar, 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 (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Telstar. (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Telstar. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Telstar has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Telstar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1999 Ford Telstar | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Telstar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
