2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Plymouth Neon
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Plymouth Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Plymouth Neon would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Plymouth Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 636 kg more than 1997 Plymouth Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Plymouth Neon, 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 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Plymouth Neon.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Plymouth Neon | |
Make | Ford | Plymouth |
Model | Thunderbird | Neon |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5850 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4950 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1109 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 79 L |