1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 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 42 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 78 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
