1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Acura CL
To start off, 2001 Acura CL is newer by 13 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, 2001 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 26 kg more than 2001 Acura CL.
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, 2001 Acura CL, 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, 2001 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Acura CL | |
Make | Ford | Acura |
Model | Thunderbird | CL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3212 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6900 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |