1954 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 43 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 136 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 613 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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:
| 1954 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5114 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
