1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 15 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (188 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Ford Mustang.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Mustang |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3801 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 188 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |