2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (350 HP) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. (280 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 367 kg more than 1996 Ford Mustang.
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, 1996 Ford Mustang (556 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 556 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
