1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 22 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (470 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 359 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 277 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (264 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | E |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 78 L |
