1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 219 kg more than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | C |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
