1957 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1966 Mercury Cougar is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 6,392 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1966 Mercury Cougar. (208 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 148 kg more than 1957 Ford Thunderbird.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford Thunderbird | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 6392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
