1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Buick Regal
To start off, 2012 Buick Regal 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick Regal (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick Regal weights approximately 23 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, 2012 Buick Regal, 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick Regal. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Buick Regal | |
Make | Ford | Buick |
Model | Thunderbird | Regal |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1633 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4831 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1857 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1483 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2738 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |