2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 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 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 469 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 (369 Nm) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 1984 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 | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1283 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
