1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2001 Mercury Sable is newer by 40 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 187 more horse power than 2001 Mercury Sable. (152 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercury Sable. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 310 kg more than 2001 Mercury Sable. 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, 2001 Mercury Sable, 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 | 2001 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Thunderbird | Sable |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
