1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 400 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1993 |
| 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 | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
