1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 39 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 293 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
| 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 | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1321 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4400 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 |
