1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1965 NSU 1000
To start off, 1965 NSU 1000 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1000. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 860 kg more than 1965 NSU 1000. 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 Ford Thunderbird | 1965 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Ford | NSU |
| Model | Thunderbird | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
