2009 Chevrolet Epica vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Epica 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Epica (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Epica should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Epica weights approximately 29 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 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, 2009 Chevrolet Epica, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Epica (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Epica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Epica has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Epica 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:
| 2009 Chevrolet Epica | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Epica | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
