1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 329 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 349 kg more than 1988 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | SL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 469 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 2650 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2650 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 97.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |