1995 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 90 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 246 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 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, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (447 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1604 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |
