2009 Ford E-350 vs. 1956 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 544 kg more than 2009 Ford E-350.
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. 2009 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford E-350 | 1956 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | E-350 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2600 mm |
