1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 MG ZS
To start off, 2003 MG ZS is newer by 6 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, 2003 MG ZS (175 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 285 kg more than 2003 MG ZS.
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, 2003 MG ZS, 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG ZS. (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG ZS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 MG ZS | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Thunderbird | ZS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
