1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird 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 52 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 557 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Polo, 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 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Polo |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
