1980 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1956 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 1980 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Opel Kapitan 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 265 kg more than 1956 Opel Kapitan.
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 1956 Opel Kapitan has manual transmission. 1956 Opel Kapitan 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:
| 1980 Ford Thunderbird | 1956 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 74 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2760 mm |
