1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fusion. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 455 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Ford Fusion, 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 (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fusion. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fusion. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Fusion 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 | 2008 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1151 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2490 mm |
