1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2009 Mazda BT-50 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 @ 3800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Mazda BT-50. (123 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda BT-50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 495 kg more than 2009 Mazda BT-50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda BT-50 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, 2009 Mazda BT-50 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda BT-50. (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda BT-50. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda BT-50 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda BT-50 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 | 2009 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
