1961 Ford Popular vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 648 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1961 Ford Popular | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Popular | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
