1965 Buick Riviera vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1965 Buick Riviera is newer by 9 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 6,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Buick Riviera (288 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Buick Riviera weights approximately 386 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.
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. 1965 Buick Riviera 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. 1965 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1965 Buick Riviera | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Buick | Ford |
Model | Riviera | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1965 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6966 cc | 5112 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 223 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2600 mm |