2004 Dodge Stratus vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Dodge Stratus is newer by 1 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 104 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Stratus. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 365 kg more than 2004 Dodge Stratus. 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, 2004 Dodge Stratus, 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 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Stratus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Stratus | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Stratus | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
