1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 13 kg more than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
