2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1971 Porsche 917
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Porsche 917. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Porsche 917 would be higher. At 4,994 cc, 1971 Porsche 917 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Porsche 917 (520 HP) has 240 more horse power than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (280 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Porsche 917 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 914 kg more than 1971 Porsche 917.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Porsche 917 (610 Nm) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm). This means 1971 Porsche 917 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1971 Porsche 917 | |
| Make | Ford | Porsche |
| Model | Thunderbird | 917 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 4994 cc |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 520 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 798 kg |
