2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 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, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 144 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 206 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 Length | 4780 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2880 mm |