1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 929 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Polo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
