2004 Ford Mondeo vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Mondeo 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mondeo (223 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 115 kg more than 2004 Ford Mondeo.
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 Ford Mondeo, 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Mondeo. (178 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mondeo | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mondeo | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
