1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 23 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 180 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Sharan |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1794 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4854 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1904 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2919 mm |