2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 400 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
