2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 20 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 345 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Alfa Romeo 147 1988 Ford Thunderbird
Make Alfa Romeo Ford
Model 147 Thunderbird
Year Released 2008 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1910 cc 3797 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 138 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 427 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 96.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.4 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 8.2:1
Top Speed 206 km/hour 225 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1365 kg 1710 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2880 mm