1996 Fiat Panda vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1061 kg more than 1996 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Panda, 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Panda | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 249 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
