1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 475 kg more than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. (177 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
