2001 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix is newer by 10 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Matrix.
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, 2011 Toyota Matrix, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Thunderbird | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
