1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is newer by 31 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M weights approximately 909 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 491 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz M has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz M | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | M |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2915 mm |
