1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 725 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 105 L |
