1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 810 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2006 Mazda 3, 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 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
