2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1987 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 300 kg more than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Jeep Cherokee 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (369 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1987 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Thunderbird | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 76 L |
