1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 959 kg more than 1987 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | S |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 88 L |
