1995 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 211 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 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 GTI, 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 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 1995 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | GTI |
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 | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 447 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1604 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |