1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Pontiac Star Chief would be higher. At 4,714 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Pontiac Star Chief is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 60 kg more than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. 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 Ford Thunderbird | 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Thunderbird | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 4714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3110 mm |
