1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 290 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |
