1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1985 Lada Niva
To start off, 1985 Lada Niva is newer by 29 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 147 more horse power than 1985 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1985 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 360 kg more than 1985 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 | 1985 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Ford | Lada |
| Model | Thunderbird | Niva |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2210 mm |
