1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 685 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm) has 558 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 SLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SLS |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1938 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 85 L |
