1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 20 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano (228 HP) has 90 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 495 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano (346 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | Viano |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 75 L |
