1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 53 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 452 more horse power than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4784 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
