1995 Dodge Caravan vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1995 Dodge Caravan is newer by 7 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1995 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1995 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 205 kg more than 1995 Dodge Caravan. 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, 1995 Dodge Caravan, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Dodge Caravan | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2880 mm |
