1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 270 kg more than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (278 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
