1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 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 94 more horse power than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 527 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 983 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
