1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1969 Ford Thunderbird. (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 466 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Ford Thunderbird. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SL |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7029 cc | 7291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 766 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 70 L |
