1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1396 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | E |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
