1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 MG ZR
To start off, 2008 MG ZR 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 MG ZR (159 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 MG ZR.
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 MG ZR, 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 MG ZR. (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 MG ZR.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 MG ZR | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Thunderbird | ZR |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
