2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram 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 4,699 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 139 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4699 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2880 mm |
