1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 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) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 665 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6. 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, 2009 Mazda 6, 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 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (145 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
