1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 435 kg more than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
