1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Kia Rio
To start off, 2002 Kia Rio 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 690 kg more than 2002 Kia Rio. 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 Kia Rio, 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 (427 Nm) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Thunderbird | Rio |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2420 mm |
