2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1987 Plymouth Turismo

To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Plymouth Turismo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Plymouth Turismo would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1987 Plymouth Turismo. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Plymouth Turismo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 675 kg more than 1987 Plymouth Turismo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Plymouth Turismo, 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Plymouth Turismo. (161 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Plymouth Turismo.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Thunderbird 1987 Plymouth Turismo
Make Ford Plymouth
Model Thunderbird Turismo
Year Released 2003 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3934 cc 2213 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 249 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 388 Nm 161 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1745 kg 1070 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2460 mm