1991 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 69 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Passat (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1991 | 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 | 138 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |