1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 224 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra.
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 Opel Astra, 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
