2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 115 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
