1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Pontiac Star Chief would be higher. At 4,715 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Pontiac Star Chief is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Pontiac Star Chief (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 272 kg more than 1986 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:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 1954 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 4715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3110 mm |
