1994 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 829 kg more than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (552 Nm) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 552 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2449 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
