2001 Ford Ranger vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2001 Ford Ranger is newer by 13 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2001 Ford Ranger. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Ranger weights approximately 50 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2001 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Ranger will offer significantly more control. 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Ranger. (266 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Ranger | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2880 mm |
