1979 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1979 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1979 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Thunderbird | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | 280 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
