2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Vectra 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 180 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 247 kg more than 2001 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra, 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
