1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 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 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 91 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 344 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2007 Volkswagen New 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
