1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 18 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 300 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | B |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
