1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 17 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1637 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1351 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2576 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
