1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2001 Dodge Ram 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Ram weights approximately 464 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Thunderbird | Ram |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2790 mm |
