1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 56 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 53 more horse power than 2011 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 235 kg more than 2011 Kia Forte. 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, 2011 Kia Forte, 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. 2011 Kia Forte 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. 2011 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Thunderbird | Forte |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4785 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2649 mm |
