1986 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 317 kg more than 1986 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | CLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
