1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 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 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 862 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | E |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1798 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 80 L |
