1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 535 kg more than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | ML |
Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2606 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 317 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |