2009 Ford Mustang vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Ford Mustang 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 210 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 744 kg more than 2009 Ford Mustang.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Mustang. (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Mustang | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Mustang | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4009 cc | 3797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 325 Nm | 427 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1710 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |