1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1983 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta 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 85 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 785 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1983 Ford Fiesta, 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 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1983 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 34 L |
