1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Samurai 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 426 kg more than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Suzuki Samurai 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 Suzuki Samurai 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 (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2004 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 2004 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
