1962 Ford Cortina vs. 1961 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1962 Ford Cortina is newer by 1 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 291 more horse power than 1962 Ford Cortina. (48 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1097 kg more than 1962 Ford Cortina. 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:
| 1962 Ford Cortina | 1961 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 6638 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 50 L |
