1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1969 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Ford Thunderbird | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1969 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7029 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 355 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |