1997 Dodge Avenger vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Dodge Avenger is newer by 9 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, 1997 Dodge Avenger (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Avenger should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 Dodge Avenger.
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, 1997 Dodge Avenger, 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Avenger. (180 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Avenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Avenger | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Avenger | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
