1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Acura TL
To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 24 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, 2012 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 20 kg more than 2012 Acura TL.
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, 2012 Acura TL, 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Acura TL. (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Acura TL.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Acura TL | |
Make | Ford | Acura |
Model | Thunderbird | TL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 344 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4928 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2776 mm |