2001 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 300 kg more than 2001 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | ML |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2685 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
