1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Volvo XC60

To start off, 2011 Volvo XC60 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 Volvo XC60 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC60 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC60 weights approximately 236 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 Volvo XC60, 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 Volvo XC60 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Ford Thunderbird 2011 Volvo XC60
Make Ford Volvo
Model Thunderbird XC60
Year Released 1988 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3797 cc 3200 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 240 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 292 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1606 kg 1842 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4628 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1712 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2748 mm