1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 16 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, 2012 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 353 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic.
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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (193 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2012 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2012 Honda Civic 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 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Thunderbird | Civic |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11:01 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4276 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1445 mm |
