1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2000 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2000 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 39 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 277 more horse power than 2000 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2000 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 695 kg more than 2000 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 | 2000 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1700 mm |
