1990 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 850 kg more than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | GL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 100 L |
