1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 8 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 240 kg more than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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, 2004 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) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. (220 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
