1963 Ford Cortina vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1963 Ford Cortina. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1963 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 155 kg more than 1963 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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Ford Cortina. (85 Nm). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Ford Cortina | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 162 HP |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |
