1991 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 622 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort, 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, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (373 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Escort |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
