1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 171 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | SLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |