1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 21 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 631 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 2010 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | R |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3500 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 | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
