1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 524 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1712 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
