1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Honda Civic

To start off, 2004 Honda Civic is newer by 7 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Honda Civic. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 499 kg more than 2004 Honda Civic. 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, 2004 Honda Civic, 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Civic. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Thunderbird 2004 Honda Civic
Make Ford Honda
Model Thunderbird Civic
Year Released 1997 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1671 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 291 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1121 kg
Vehicle Length 5090 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 50 L