1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 GMC Sonoma
To start off, 2001 GMC Sonoma 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 22 more horse power than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 GMC Sonoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 136 kg more than 2001 GMC Sonoma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 GMC Sonoma 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 GMC Sonoma 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 GMC Sonoma. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 GMC Sonoma has manual transmission. 2001 GMC Sonoma 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 GMC Sonoma | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Sonoma |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3130 mm |
