1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 19 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
