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

F_O_R answered 5 years ago

Either engine will have enough power for cruising.

2 people found this helpful.
Mark helpful

F_O_R answered 5 years ago

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.
Mark helpful

Lamadogg answered 4 years ago

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

Mark helpful

Your Answer:

Related Questions

  • 1966 Thunderbird 390 vs 428 4 Answers

    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 Du...

    1966 Ford Thunderbird

    -

    General

  • I have a 1966 Ford Thunderbird Conv. with a 428 engine and AC. How may were built. 2 Answers

    How many1966 Ford Thunderbird Convertibles were made with a 428 Q engine and AC?

    1966 Ford Thunderbird

    -

    General

  • How many 1966 "428" Convertibles were produced??? 1 Answer

    Also, is there a production list for how many vehicles in each color were produced??? Specifically: 1966 "428" Convertible in Tahoe Turquoise & Britanny Blue???

    1966 Ford Thunderbird Convertible RWD

    -

    General

  • how many Q codes were built in 1966 27 Answers

    I have a 66 VIN 6Y87Q123529 and I'd like to know how many Town Landau with 428 motor were built in 1966 and was this the only year for the 428 in the Thunderbird?

    1966 Ford Thunderbird

    -

    General

  • I have a 1966 Ford Thunderbird 2 Answers

    I have a 1966 Ford Thunderbird VIN 6Y85Q137447 and I am thinking about selling the car. It is in great condition and had a rotisserie restoration about 10 years ago. I am trying to get more informat...

    1966 Ford Thunderbird Convertible RWD

    -

    General

Thunderbird

Looking for a Used Thunderbird in your area?

CarGurus has 35 nationwide Thunderbird listings starting at $15,888.

Postal Code:

Shortcuts

Search Ford Thunderbird Questions

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Larry Sturgis
    Reputation
    3,020
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    2,080
  • #3
    MrBlueOval
    Reputation
    1,580
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Mustang
65 Great Deals out of 1,259 listings starting at $4,995
Used Chevrolet Corvette
29 Great Deals out of 1,060 listings starting at $15,871
Used Chevrolet Camaro
16 Great Deals out of 307 listings starting at $10,500
Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
12 Great Deals out of 126 listings starting at $13,995
Used Pontiac Firebird
15 listings

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.