1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2004 Opel Frontera 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, 2004 Opel Frontera (202 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Frontera weights approximately 100 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 2004 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Frontera. (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Frontera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3165 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2470 mm |
