1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Saturn Vue
To start off, 2008 Saturn Vue is newer by 11 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, 2008 Saturn Vue (169 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Vue weights approximately 115 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, 2008 Saturn Vue, 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 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Vue. (219 Nm @ 6100 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Vue.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vue |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
