1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 34 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 4,785 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 506 kg more than 1989 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:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4785 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
