1957 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1972 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1972 Ford Mustang is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,753 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (267 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1957 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 142 kg more than 1957 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford Thunderbird | 1972 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 5753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2780 mm |
