1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 17 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 236 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (431 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
