2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 445 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | A |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |