1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Saturn Vue
To start off, 2005 Saturn Vue is newer by 9 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, 2005 Saturn Vue (144 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 209 kg more than 2005 Saturn Vue.
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, 2005 Saturn Vue, 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn Vue. (206 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn Vue.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vue |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 144 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
