1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 46 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, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 70 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.
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, 2002 Acura CL, 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. 2002 Acura CL 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. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Ford | Acura |
| Model | Thunderbird | CL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
