1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 450 kg more than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1955 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SL |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
