1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1997 Toyota Corolla is newer by 36 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 231 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 515 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. 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, 1997 Toyota Corolla, 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 Ford Thunderbird | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Thunderbird | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 1760 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2470 mm |
