2003 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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 6,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (340 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 954 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.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (488 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Silverado | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Silverado | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6599 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2560 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2880 mm |
