1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 55 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 55 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 284 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, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2919 mm |
