1988 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1988 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 32 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 5,740 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Chevrolet Corvette (380 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (209 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 118 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Chevrolet Corvette | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Corvette | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5740 cc | 4784 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 380 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
