1969 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1961 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1969 Chevrolet Vega is newer by 8 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 258 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 870 kg more than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. 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:
| 1969 Chevrolet Vega | 1961 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Vega | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 6638 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 50 L |
