1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 104 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 Chevrolet Equinox, 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Equinox.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Thunderbird | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2858 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 71 L |
