1972 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1961 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera is newer by 11 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, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1961 Ford Thunderbird. (339 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 525 kg more than 1972 De Tomaso Pantera.
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:
| 1972 De Tomaso Pantera | 1961 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Ford |
| Model | Pantera | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5761 cc | 6638 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
