2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 365 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
