1996 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 40 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 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Intrepid, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1996 Dodge Intrepid 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. 1996 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Intrepid | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Intrepid | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3228 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5126 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2600 mm |
