1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 26 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 247 kg more than 1982 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | CLK |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3198 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 89.9 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 | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
