1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 18 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (207 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 402 kg more than 2006 Ford Ranger.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger 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, 2006 Ford Ranger 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, 2006 Ford Ranger (323 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1208 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 74 L |
