1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 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 109 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 220 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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. 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
