2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 2009 Dodge Caliber 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 Dodge Caliber 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
