1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 275 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 100 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Viper | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2880 mm |
