2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP) has 149 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 637 kg more than 2006 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 249 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1108 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
