2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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 Spider, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
