1996 Fiat Palio vs. 2005 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Palio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Palio would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Palio. (107 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Palio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 737 kg more than 1996 Fiat Palio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Palio, 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Palio. (148 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Palio.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Fiat Palio 2005 Ford Thunderbird
Make Fiat Ford
Model Palio Thunderbird
Year Released 1996 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1581 cc 3932 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 107 HP 280 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 388 Nm
Engine Bore Size 86.4 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 67.5 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 10.8:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 975 kg 1712 kg
Vehicle Length 3740 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2370 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 48 L 68 L