2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 322 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
