1991 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 805 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Thunderbird | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
