1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 48 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 365 kg more than 1956 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1956 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1956 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | S |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2970 mm |
