2005 Acura RL vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura RL (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 140 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL, 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, 2005 Acura RL (353 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2005 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RL | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | RL | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 60 L |
