1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 646 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.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 95 L |
