1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 49 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 94 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (129 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 86 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
