1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Volvo XC70

To start off, 2005 Volvo XC70 is newer by 17 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 (217 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 129 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 2005 Volvo XC70 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Volvo XC70 has manual transmission. 2005 Volvo XC70 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 2005 Volvo XC70
Make Ford Volvo
Model Thunderbird XC70
Year Released 1988 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3797 cc 2401 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 292 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.8 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 93.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 185 km/hour 210 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1606 kg 1735 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1570 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2800 mm