1995 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (230 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 204 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (447 Nm) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1995 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1604 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
