1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | G |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
