1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Buick Lucerne
To start off, 2011 Buick Lucerne is newer by 23 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Buick Lucerne (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 203 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 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, 2011 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2011 Buick Lucerne (390 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Buick Lucerne | |
Make | Ford | Buick |
Model | Thunderbird | Lucerne |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 292 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 390 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1813 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5161 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1875 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2936 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |