1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 163 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 225 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1457 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |