1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2003 Renault Grand Espace 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 Renault Grand Espace (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 280 kg more than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2003 Renault Grand Espace, 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, 2003 Renault Grand Espace (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 83 L |
