2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 620 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2260 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |