1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1957 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 1961 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Zodiac would be higher. 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 263 more horse power than 1957 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 681 kg more than 1957 Ford Zodiac. 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 Thunderbird | 1957 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
