1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 1969 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 1969 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 6 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7029 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 64 L |
