1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 217 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | SL |
Year Released | 1982 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4186 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |