USA vs USA — 1964 vs 1952
| Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC | Crestline Sunliner Convertible | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 500 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 210 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,997 cc | 3,917 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 3.9 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 95 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 11.6 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,200 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,921 mm | 2,921 mm |
| Length | 4,953 mm | 5,029 mm |
| Units Produced | 100 | 37,681 |
| Original MSRP | $3,900 | $2,043 |
| Value (Excellent) | $900,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 6/10 |
On balance, the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1952 Ford Crestline Sunliner Convertible counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC for outright capability, or the 1952 Ford Crestline Sunliner Convertible for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Ford has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC with the 1952 Ford Crestline Sunliner Convertible highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC holds a clear advantage in raw power with 500 hp compared to 130 hp, a 370-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt uses a V8 SOHC 16V displacing 6,997 cc, while the Ford Crestline relies on a V8 OHV with 3,917 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC edges ahead at 3.9 seconds versus 14.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC is considerably scarcer than the Ford Crestline's 37,681 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC commands a significant premium over the 1952 Ford Crestline Sunliner Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt 427 SOHC rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.