2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan, 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Caravan | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
