2009 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (295 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 344 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Silverado.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado (414 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Silverado | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Silverado | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 45 L |
