1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 9 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 654 kg more than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (335 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
