2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 53 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 4,784 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (209 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 209 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Traverse | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 4784 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1470 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 |
