1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2003 Jeep Wrangler 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2003 Jeep Wrangler 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Thunderbird | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2380 mm |
