1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 658 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 60 L |
