1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 30 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (134 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1394 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 1982 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | Viano |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| 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 | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
