2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1955 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 54 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 249 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 1955 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 1955 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1955 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Traverse | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2600 mm |
