1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is newer by 16 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 305 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (460 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | E500 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
