1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is newer by 40 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 41 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. (182 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 326 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger has automatic transmission and 1956 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1956 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Thunderbird | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
