2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 782 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Samurai 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 Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2490 mm |
