1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1064 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.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | GL |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
