1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1987 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 36 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 Volkswagen Rabbit (135 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
