1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1957 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1957 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 661 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 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:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1957 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
| Model | 100 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2600 mm |
