2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2261 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 257 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |