1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 552 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
