1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 211 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | C |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
