1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 439 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1271 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
