1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 271 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 371 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1665 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 | 80 L |