1957 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1980 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 663 kg more than 1957 Ford Escort.
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. 1980 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1957 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1957 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford Escort | 1980 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 817 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2760 mm |
