1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 20 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, 2008 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 450 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
Because 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Thunderbird | A4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
