1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Pontiac Bonneville
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Bonneville 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 4,556 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Bonneville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Bonneville (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Bonneville should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Bonneville weights approximately 99 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, 2004 Pontiac Bonneville, 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, 2004 Pontiac Bonneville (407 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Bonneville will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Pontiac Bonneville | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Bonneville |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1719 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
