1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 GMC Safari
To start off, 1997 GMC Safari 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 4,784 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 GMC Safari. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 GMC Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 GMC Safari weights approximately 485 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
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. 1997 GMC Safari 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. 1997 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1956 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 GMC Safari | |
Make | Ford | GMC |
Model | Thunderbird | Safari |
Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4784 cc | 4293 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 209 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |