2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 71 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Impala | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |