1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2006 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |