1990 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 217 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1990 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 1990 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 1990 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | GTI |
Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |