2001 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP) has 48 more horse power than 2005 Mercury Mariner. (201 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercury Mariner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 246 kg more than 2005 Mercury Mariner. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner, 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, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercury Mariner. (262 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercury Mariner.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mariner |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 62 L |
