1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2002 Honda S-MX 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 @ 3800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 280 kg more than 2002 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda S-MX 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, 2002 Honda S-MX 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Thunderbird | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2510 mm |
