2009 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 13 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 359 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Silverado.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Silverado | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Silverado | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 332 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 60 L |
