1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1971 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 190 kg more than 1971 Holden Statesman.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1971 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Thunderbird | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5042 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
