1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 2. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 574 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2. 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, 2012 Mazda 2, 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 43 L |
