1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 15 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 98 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 69 L |
