1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier will offer significantly more control. 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 Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Thunderbird | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
