2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 387 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Thunderbird | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
