1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 238 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (171 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
