1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
To start off, 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Thunderbird 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 179 more horse power than 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser weights approximately 70 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 Ford Thunderbird | 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vista Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3080 mm |
