1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 (200 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1 kg more than 2012 Volvo S60.
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 Volvo S60, 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, 2012 Volvo S60 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | S60 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 67 L |
