1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 68 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
