1966 Thunderbird 390 vs 428

25

Asked by ChrisStockslager Oct 08, 2019 at 03:43 AM about the 1966 Ford Thunderbird

Question type: General

Hello, there! My very first time posting on this
site! I’ve been in very deeply in love with
classic cars all my short life and since a 27-
year-old with two music degrees can’t
exactly afford a Duesenberg SJ, I’ve had my
eye on Thunderbirds for a while now -
particularly the 1966 vintage.  I know the Q
code 428 was an option, but a rather popular
one. My question is, which engine do you
prefer in this year and why? In my research, I
recall the extra 30 hp helps the car’s
acceleration somewhat in the 428. But what
are the pros and cons you folks find
regarding both engines and which would you
recommend for a first time classic car buyer?
Acceleration, maintenance, fuel and
additives, parts, anything that comes to
mind!

And no, it will not be my daily driver – they
will have to pry my 2010 V6 RAV4 from my
cold dead hands. ;)

Many thanks for your opinions!
- Chris

4 Answers

Either engine will have enough power for cruising.

1 people found this helpful.

The 390 was good for a 11 second 0 to 60 and the 428 shaved off about 2 seconds. Be aware that there was also a 2 barrel version of the 390. These cars are very heavy but they make great demolition derby cars because they are so strong.

2 people found this helpful.

390 was a higher revving motor. If you simply plan to enjoy it, just find the best deal regardless of engine.

Your Answer:

Thunderbird

Looking for a Used Thunderbird in your area?

CarGurus has 762 nationwide Thunderbird listings starting at $3,999.

ZIP:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

1966 Ford Thunderbird

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Larry Sturgis
    Reputation
    2,960
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    2,080
  • #3
    MrBlueOval
    Reputation
    1,570
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Mustang
905 Great Deals out of 22,357 listings starting at $783
Used Chevrolet Corvette
696 Great Deals out of 12,104 listings starting at $3,200
Used Chevrolet Camaro
583 Great Deals out of 9,133 listings starting at $4,000
Used Porsche 911
372 Great Deals out of 3,938 listings starting at $16,500
Used Volkswagen Beetle
137 Great Deals out of 1,682 listings starting at $1,500
Used Dodge Charger
741 Great Deals out of 28,492 listings starting at $2,500
Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
113 Great Deals out of 2,501 listings starting at $5,699

Used Cars for Sale

2005 Ford Thunderbird For Sale
3 Great Deals out of 70 listings starting at $6,950
2004 Ford Thunderbird For Sale
10 Great Deals out of 120 listings starting at $6,950
2003 Ford Thunderbird For Sale
15 Great Deals out of 115 listings starting at $3,999
2002 Ford Thunderbird For Sale
19 Great Deals out of 254 listings starting at $8,994

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.