1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 227 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
