1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 25 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 444 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 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
