2004 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 16 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 9 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 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Buick LaCrosse | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Buick | Ford |
Model | LaCrosse | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3564 cc | 3797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 292 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1606 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2880 mm |