1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 56 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 365 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1956 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1956 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1956 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
Make | Ford | Buick |
Model | Thunderbird | LaCrosse |
Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4784 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 209 HP | 303 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5001 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1857 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2837 mm |