2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 194 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Thunderbird | Explorer |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 4009 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 335 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1939 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3200 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 85 L |