2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (203 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 465 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 85 L |
