2008 Chrysler Pacifica vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is newer by 5 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica (254 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. (249 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler Pacifica. (355 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler Pacifica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler Pacifica | 2003 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Pacifica | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 59 L |
