1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 6,638 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ford Thunderbird (339 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 507 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SLK |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
