1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 SSC Tuatara
To start off, 2012 SSC Tuatara is newer by 51 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 6,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 SSC Tuatara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 SSC Tuatara (1,350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 1011 more horse power than 1961 Ford Thunderbird. (339 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 SSC Tuatara should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 628 kg more than 2012 SSC Tuatara.
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 | 2012 SSC Tuatara | |
| Make | Ford | SSC |
| Model | Thunderbird | Tuatara |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 6932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 1350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1092 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2667 mm |
