1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Ford Laser
To start off, 2001 Ford Laser 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2001 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 491 kg more than 2001 Ford Laser. 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, 2001 Ford Laser, 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Laser. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Laser 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 | 2001 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Laser |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
