1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 264 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
