1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 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 281 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7029 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 14.7 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 29.4 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 55 L |
