2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP) has 190 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 803 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2560 mm |
