1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | 250 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3430 mm |
