1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Hummer H3
To start off, 2009 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 (239 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hummer H3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hummer H3 weights approximately 596 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Hummer H3 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, 2009 Hummer H3 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, 2009 Hummer H3 (327 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Hummer H3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Hummer H3 has manual transmission. 2009 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 | |
| Make | Ford | Hummer |
| Model | Thunderbird | H3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3653 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 2202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2170 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2850 mm |
