1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Volvo S80.
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 Volvo S80, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S80. (281 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
