1951 Austin A vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1956 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1951 Austin A. (29 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 825 kg more than 1951 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 803 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2600 mm |
