1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 500 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Passat (240 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 193 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 91 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 70 L |