1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 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 37 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2011 Volkswagen T5 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | T5 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4784 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3010 mm |
