1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 1997 Mercury Mystique 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 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 93 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Mystique. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Mystique. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 268 kg more than 1997 Mercury Mystique. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Mystique, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mystique |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
