1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 23 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1524 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.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | GL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1941 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 100 L |
