1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1973 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1973 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1973 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 705 kg more than 1973 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 304, 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1973 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Ford | Peugeot |
| Model | Thunderbird | 304 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 42 L |
