1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 53 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 118 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 140 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| 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 | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
