2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 2 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (207 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 544 kg more than 2006 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger will offer significantly more control. 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 (369 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ranger. (323 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 3932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 369 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 68 L |
