1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2004 GMC Sierra 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 GMC Sierra (321 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 GMC Sierra weights approximately 560 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 2004 GMC Sierra 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, 2004 GMC Sierra 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 GMC Sierra. (370 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 GMC Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 5967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3650 mm |
