1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 GMC Safari
To start off, 2004 GMC Safari is newer by 16 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 4,294 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 GMC Safari (190 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 GMC Safari weights approximately 345 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.
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, 2004 GMC Safari (339 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2004 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 GMC Safari | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Safari |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 102.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 102 L |
