2001 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 558 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 59 L |
