2008 Audi S4 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 550 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Because 2008 Audi S4 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, 2008 Audi S4 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S4 | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S4 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2880 mm |
