1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 757 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
Year Released | 1982 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |