1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2002 Ford Fiesta is newer by 14 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP) has 71 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 488 kg more than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2002 Ford Fiesta, 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1122 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
