1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (210 HP) has 157 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 835 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2480 mm |
