1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 94 kg more than 2011 Nissan Altima.
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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2011 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2011 Nissan Altima 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 | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Thunderbird | Altima |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2675 mm |