1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1961 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, both 1961 Austin Mini Cooper and 1961 Ford Thunderbird were released in the same year (1961). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 6,638 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ford Thunderbird (339 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1291 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | 1961 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 6638 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 50 L |
