2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 546 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Sunfire, 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 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Thunderbird | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 280 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 183 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |