1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 6 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 15 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 530 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Thunderbird | Prizm |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2470 mm |