1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 37 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 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Ford Thunderbird. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | R |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7029 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 80 L |
