1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Opel Signum. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 230 kg more than 2004 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Signum. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Signum |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
