2003 Audi A8 vs. 1955 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1955 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1955 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
