1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2009 Ford Fusion is newer by 21 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, 2009 Ford Fusion (158 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2009 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Fusion. (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Fusion. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Ford Fusion | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Fusion |
Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |