2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 17 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 240 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |
