1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 17 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 200 more horse power than 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. (139 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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 | 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2910 mm |
