2009 Audi A8 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 21 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 334 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 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2880 mm |
