1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 373 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 346 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 511 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 720 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |