What engine came in a 1964 Thunderbird?
The 1964 Ford Thunderbird is a classic American car that has captured the hearts of many automotive enthusiasts. Known for its sleek design and luxurious features, the Thunderbird also boasted impressive performance under the hood. In this article, we will explore the engine options available for the 1964 Thunderbird and what made them special.
Engine Options for the 1964 Thunderbird
The 1964 Thunderbird came equipped with two primary engine options, both of which were part of Ford's renowned FE engine family. Here’s a closer look at these engines:
- 390 cubic inch V8: This was the standard engine for the 1964 Thunderbird. It produced approximately 300 horsepower and 427 lb-ft of torque. The 390 V8 was known for its smooth power delivery and reliability, making it a popular choice among buyers.
- 428 cubic inch V8: For those seeking more power, Ford offered the optional 428 cubic inch V8 engine, which was rated at 345 horsepower and 462 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided a significant performance boost and was favored by enthusiasts looking for a more spirited driving experience.
Performance and Features
Both engines were paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, which contributed to the Thunderbird's reputation for a comfortable and effortless driving experience. The 1964 Thunderbird also featured advanced engineering for its time, including:
- Power steering and power brakes for enhanced control and comfort.
- A spacious interior with luxurious seating and high-quality materials.
- Innovative design elements, such as the "Thunderbird" emblem and distinctive rear tail lights.
Conclusion
The 1964 Ford Thunderbird remains a symbol of American automotive excellence, combining style, comfort, and performance. Whether equipped with the standard 390 V8 or the more powerful 428 V8, this classic car continues to be celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 1964 and 1965 Thunderbird?
In styling, the 1965 naturally resembled the 1964. The grille was busier with its six new vertical bars bisecting the thin horizontal bars of 1964; the 1965 also had dummy side louvers and new "turbo style" wheel covers. The drivetrain was unchanged and the 300-bhp 390 engine remained the Thunderbird's sole powerplant.
How much is a 1964 Thunderbird worth?
The value of a 1964 Ford Thunderbird can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $12,900 for a 1964 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec.
What engine is in a 1964 Ford Thunderbird?
Ford Thunderbird (fourth generation)
| Ford Thunderbird Fourth Generation | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 390 cu in (6.4 L) FE V8 427 cu in (7.0 L) FE V8 428 cu in (7.0 L) FE V8 |
| Transmission | 3-speed Cruise-O Matic MX automatic 3-speed Ford C6 automatic |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Ford Thunderbird (third generation) |
What engine is in a 1964 Thunderbird?
Those second-generation cars were a bit clunky, styling-wise, so Ford made up for it with the 1961–63 models and their sleek, chrome-clad elegance. In 1964, another new Thunderbird generation bowed, this time with a more formal roofline and the same 390 FE V-8 as its predecessor.
What is the rarest Ford Thunderbird?
1957 Phase One D/F Factory Supercharged
The rarest of all 1957 Ford Thunderbirds is the 1957 Phase One D/F Factory Supercharged. One of 15 hand-built for Ford Competition at Ford Headquarters, and one of eight known to survive today.
What was the 0 60 on a 1964 Thunderbird?
Even with Ford's powerful 300-hp V-8 and a 3.00 rear axle, we didn't expect outstanding performance, and we weren't surprised when it wasn't forthcoming. Our accelera- tion runs found the T-Bird swooping from zero to 60 mph in 11.2 seconds, passing 30 and 45 at 3.6- and 6.9-second marks.
What was the top speed of the 1964 Ford Thunderbird?
about 120 mph
The standard 390 cu. in. 315 bhp engine needed nearly 11 seconds to push the heavy T-bird to 60 mph (96 km/h), although with enough room a top speed of about 120 mph (200 km/h) was obtainable.
How much horsepower does a 1964 Thunderbird 390 have?
The only remnant of the Thunderbird's former sporty image was that the standard 390-cubic-inch 300 hp (224 kW) V8 engine needed nearly 11 seconds to push the heavy T-bird to 60 mph (97 km/h). The softly sprung suspension allowed considerable body lean, wallow, and float on curves and bumps.
How many 1964 Thunderbirds were built?
92,465
Production totals
| Year | Production |
|---|---|
| 1964 | 92,465 |
| 1965 | 74,972 |
| 1966 | 69,176 |
| Total | 236,613 |
What year is the most desirable Thunderbird?
The 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster M-Code is a rare classic car and one of the most sought-after Thunderbird versions.
