2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 5 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 638 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus X 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Taurus X. (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 3494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 72 L |
