2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 191 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Thunderbird | CLS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 4700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 402 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1936 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |