2003 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Chrysler Sebring 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 Chrysler Sebring (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 100 kg more than 2003 Chrysler Sebring.
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 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler Sebring. (227 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Sebring | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Sebring | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 227 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
