1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 607 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. 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:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Escort |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 903 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
