1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1700 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
