1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2002 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 504 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 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, 2002 Volvo XC90 (351 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2114 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 72 L |
