1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 177 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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 Jetta, 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 Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Jetta |
Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4186 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |