1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 234 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
