1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 455 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Polo |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |