2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Ram. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 60 L |
