1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Mustang is newer by 41 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 6 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. 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 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4784 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
