1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 215 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2006 Mercury Mariner 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 Mercury Mariner 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercury Mariner. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercury Mariner.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 12.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2630 mm |
