1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 51 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 48 more horse power than 2006 Opel Vectra. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 103 kg more than 1955 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2006 Opel Vectra, 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. 2006 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1955 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
