2003 Fiat Punto vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (83 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 576 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Fiat Punto, 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (196 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Punto | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
