1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Chevrolet Nubira
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Nubira is newer by 14 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 30 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Nubira. (108 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Nubira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 365 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Nubira. 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, 2011 Chevrolet Nubira, 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 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Nubira. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Nubira.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Chevrolet Nubira | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Thunderbird | Nubira |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
