1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 28 kg more than 2004 Subaru Outback.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Subaru Outback. (225 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Thunderbird | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1592 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
