2003 Audi A8 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 15 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, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Audi A8.
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, 2003 Audi A8, 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2880 mm |
