1957 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1957 Ford Thunderbird. (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 533 kg more than 1957 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1957 Ford Thunderbird has manual transmission. 1957 Ford Thunderbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SL |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 2045 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 |
