1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 7 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Thunderbird | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
