1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 362 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.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | S |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
