1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 295 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
