2001 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2013 Ford Fiesta is newer by 12 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 131 more horse power than 2013 Ford Fiesta. (118 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2013 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 592 kg more than 2013 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2013 Ford Fiesta, 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 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Ford Fiesta. 2001 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2013 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2013 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 11:01:00 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1153 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4067 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
