1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2000 Ford Contour
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 45 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 95 more horse power than 2000 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 262 kg more than 2000 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour, 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:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 2000 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Contour |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
