1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Sonata (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Sonata 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, 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Hyundai Sonata. (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Thunderbird | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2794 mm |
