1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 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 21 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 186 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. 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, 2003 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 6 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:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Thunderbird | 6 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 119 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2680 mm |