1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 52 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 43 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 141 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4784 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2340 mm |
