2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 640 kg more than 2009 Ford Fiesta. 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 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (128 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Fiesta. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Fiesta 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 Ford Fiesta | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Fiesta | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 3797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 95 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 128 Nm | 292 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 96.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1606 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2880 mm |