2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 51 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 96.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |