2004 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler Sebring (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 168 kg more than 2004 Chrysler Sebring.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler Sebring. (226 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler Sebring | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Sebring | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
