1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1971 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1996 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 4,140 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (182 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 190 kg more than 1971 Holden Statesman.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Holden Statesman (356 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 1971 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Thunderbird | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4140 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 356 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
