1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (216 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 556 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (305 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | ML |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 83 L |
