1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1965 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1979 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volkswagen 1500 would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 953 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 1965 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5731 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
