1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 232 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.

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