1954 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1971 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen K 70 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,114 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Ford Thunderbird (225 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 528 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 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 1954 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen K 70, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ford Thunderbird | 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5114 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |
