1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 239 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4277 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 |
